Historic environs review could end

In Leavenworth, a building that's not on a historic registry still can be subject to review by the city's Preservation Commission if the structure is within 500 feet of a property that is considered to be historic.

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By John Richmeier

The Leavenworth Times - Leavenworth, KS

By John Richmeier

Posted Aug. 24, 2013 at 9:15 AM

By John Richmeier

Posted Aug. 24, 2013 at 9:15 AM

In Leavenworth, a building that's not on a historic registry still can be subject to review by the city's Preservation Commission if the structure is within 500 feet of a property that is considered to be historic.

But that practice soon could change. City Planner Ralph Moore told Leavenworth city commissioners this past week that a requirement for a state level review has been eliminated. And he recommended that the city follow suit by discontinuing its review of properties that are considered to be within historic environs.

Under current city regulations, proposed expansion, other modifications and demolition of properties within 500 feet of historic buildings or historic districts are subject to review by the Preservation Commission, which provides recommendations to the City Commission.

Moore recommended eliminating the requirement for a review by the Preservation Commission and City Commission for modifications to structures within historic environs.

Moore said the change only will apply to buildings within 500 feet of the boundaries of historic districts. It will not apply to buildings within the districts themselves.

The city planner also recommended a 30-day grace period for the proposed demolition of a property within historic environs. And the proposed demolition would have to be advertised.

"It's more of a cooling off period," Moore said.

He said this would give history enthusiasts an opportunity to make an offer for buying and renovating a structure.

Commissioners expressed support for discontinuing the review requirement.

"I would do away with it in a heartbeat," Commissioner Davis Moulden said.

Making the change will require the passage of an ordinance.

No action was taken this past week during the Commission's study session. But the issue is on the agenda for a meeting Tuesday night for first consideration.